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Tony Pulis signs someone who isn’t a centre-half

West Brom have made their first signing of the summer with the acquisition of winger Matt Phillips from QPR for an undisclosed fee, thought to be around £5.5m.

Phillips has been a target for Tony Pulis since he became Baggies boss in January 2015 and he has moved to The Hawthorns on a four-year contract, after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms at West Brom’s training ground on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old’s transfer has gone through in time for him to fly out to Austria on Thursday with his new team-mates for a pre-season training camp – a trip which includes a high-profile friendly against French treble-winners Paris St Germain on July 13.

West Brom technical director Nick Hammond told the club’s official website, wba.co.uk: “I think it’s fair to say Matt has been on the radar for a period of time and we’re very pleased to have finally got his signature.

“He’s a great acquisition because he adds to the versatility within the group. He gives us both wide positions and is also able to play as a central striker. We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Matt to the club.”

Phillips began his career with Wycombe, making his debut in 2008. After 79 appearances for the Chairboys he joined Blackpool in the summer after they were promoted to the Barclays Premier League. He scored on his Premier League debut for the Seasiders in September 2010.

Phillips moved to QPR in August 2013 and scored 13 goals in 82 appearances for the Hoops.

In total, Phillips has played 55 Premier League games during his spells with Blackpool and QPR, scoring four goals in his two top-flight seasons – both of which ended in relegation.